Lawachara National Park sits in Moulvibazar district, about 160 kilometres northeast of Dhaka. Most travellers head there to see the hoolock gibbons, walk the forest trails, and experience one of Bangladesh’s oldest protected rainforests. The park covers 1,250 hectares, but the main visitor area is near the Srimangal–Moulvibazar road.
The easiest way to reach Lawachara is to first get to Srimangal town. From Dhaka, take a direct bus from the Sayedabad or Fakirapool bus terminals. Several companies like Saudia, Shyamoli, and Hanif operate daily services. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic. Buses drop you at Srimangal bus stand, which is close to the town centre. Alternatively, you can take a train from Dhaka’s Kamalapur station. The Upaban Express and Parabat Express both stop at Srimangal railway station. The train ride takes around 5 hours and is more scenic, passing through tea gardens and haor wetlands. Tickets can be booked online through the Bangladesh Railway website or purchased at the station.
Once you reach Srimangal, Lawachara National Park is only about 8 kilometres away. Local transport options include tempo (three-wheeler auto-rickshaw), CNG-run auto-rickshaw, or a hired car. A tempo ride takes about 20 minutes and costs around 30–40 BDT per person. A private CNG will cost roughly 200–300 BDT for the whole vehicle. You can also walk or cycle if you prefer, but the road has moderate traffic.
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. There is no entry fee for Bangladeshi nationals, but foreign visitors pay a small fee of around 200–300 BDT. A guide is not mandatory, but hiring one from the forest office near the entrance can enhance your experience. Guides charge about 500–800 BDT for a two-hour walk. The main trail loops through mixed evergreen forest and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll see giant trees, bamboo thickets, and if you’re lucky, troops of gibbons swinging overhead. Early morning (6–8 AM) is the best time for wildlife sightings.
Accommodation and Food Near Lawachara
Most visitors stay in Srimangal town. Guesthouses and eco-resorts line the main road and side lanes. Budget options like Hotel Central or Green Leaf Inn charge 800–1,500 BDT per night. Mid-range resorts such as DuSai Resort or Tea Resort charge 2,500–5,000 BDT. Book in advance during peak season (November to March). Inside the park, there is no accommodation except for a basic forest rest house that requires prior permission from the Divisional Forest Officer in Moulvibazar.
Food in Srimangal centres on local Bengali dishes, with a focus on fish and vegetables. Many restaurants serve the famous 7-layer tea and traditional pitha (rice cakes). For a quick meal near the park, small stalls at the entrance sell biscuits, chips, and bottled water. Carry your own snacks if you plan a long hike.
Seasonal Conditions and What to Pack
The best time to visit Lawachara is during the dry season from November to March. The weather is cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20–25°C. The monsoon (June to September) brings heavy rain, making trails muddy and leeches active. If you visit in summer (April–May), expect heat and humidity but fewer crowds.
Wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes for walking in the forest. Insect repellent is essential, especially during and after rain. Carry a raincoat or umbrella if visiting between June and October. Mobile network coverage is patchy inside the park; BDT and Robi work near the entrance but fade deeper into the forest. There are no ATMs inside the park, so bring cash.
Safety is generally good, but stay on marked trails. Do not feed or approach the monkeys. The park authorities have a first-aid post near the entrance. For emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Srimangal (8 km away).
Return Travel
To return to Dhaka, go back to Srimangal bus stand or railway station. Buses leave frequently until late evening. The last bus from Srimangal to Dhaka departs around 8 PM, but confirm with the operator. Trains have fixed schedules; the Upaban Express departs Srimangal at 2:30 PM and arrives in Dhaka around 7:30 PM. Book return tickets in advance, especially on weekends.
For those continuing to other destinations, Srimangal connects by bus to Sylhet (2 hours), Moulvibazar (45 minutes), and Dhaka. Shared CNGs run from Srimangal to Moulvibazar town, where you can catch buses to Sylhet or other points.
Always confirm current transport schedules and fees with local operators before travelling, as timings and prices can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to enter Lawachara National Park?
No special permit is required for general visitors. Bangladeshi nationals enter free of charge. Foreign visitors pay a small entry fee at the gate. If you plan to stay overnight in the forest rest house, you must obtain permission from the Divisional Forest Officer in Moulvibazar.
What is the best time of day to see hoolock gibbons?
Early morning, between 6 AM and 8 AM, is the best time. Gibbons are most active at dawn when they call and move through the canopy. Afternoon visits often result in fewer sightings as they rest during the heat.
Can I hire a guide at the park?
Yes, guides are available at the forest office near the main entrance. They charge around 500–800 BDT for a two-hour walk. A guide can help spot wildlife and explain the forest ecology. Hiring one is not mandatory but recommended for a better experience.
Is Lawachara National Park safe for solo travellers?
Yes, the park is generally safe for solo travellers. Stick to the main trails and avoid walking after dark. Keep valuables out of sight. The park staff are helpful. Solo travellers often visit without issues, but it’s wise to inform someone of your plans.
